Siberian Larch Cladding

Siberian Larch Cladding

Siberian Larch Cladding is a good choice as cladding for a wide range of projects from large-scale construction to small self-builds. It is popular with architects and construction companies alike due to its aesthetic beauty, durability and longevity. Siberian Larch Cladding has been specified for residential and commercial applications—including schools and sports facilities. Siberian Larch is a sustainable old-growth timber that has been used in construction for centuries. Its popularity lies in the fact that it is aesthetically beautiful, naturally durable and long lasting. The remarkable qualities and unique performance characteristics of Siberian Larch have led it to being referred to as ‘the tree of eternity’. It is used extensively throughout Europe and has proven itself in the harshest of climates.

Durability

For the purposes of external cladding Siberian Larch is a naturally durable timber, Class 2/3 according to BS EN 350-2. Resins and extracts in the wood create a high resistance to decay and rot, the high density of Siberian Larch means that it is more difficult for decaying organisms to penetrate the wood. With a lifespan in excess of 50 years, Siberian Larch is one of the toughest and most durable softwoods available. This durability is similar to our Architectural Western Red Cedar and better performances can only be achieved with Accoya or THERMA Cladding. It is also important to note that how a cladding is detailed and fixed will have an effect on it’s life expectancy.
The natural durability combined with independently verified environmental credentials has encouraged architects to specify this timber where a knotty, maintenance-free cladding is required.

Density

Siberian Larch cladding has a high percentage of heartwood and a minimum of sapwood. At all times we strive to machine our Larch cladding with at least one face sap-free. The timber is approx. 628kg/m3 and a moisture content of 18%. This higher density cladding means it is not easily damaged and therefore is ideal for highly exposed elevations or applications where there is the chance of physical damage such as knocks or scapes i.e. schools, shopping centres. etc.

Sustainability

Our Siberian Larch is sourced from well managed forests and is legally verified.

Coating Suitability

The timber does not require any further treatment and can be left to weather to a natural silver grey colour. However, if pre finishing is required or the natural colour of the timber is to be maintained this can be achieved on site by using one of our UV protection oils.  For larger scale projects it may be more beneficial to have the coating factory applied saving onsite cost and whislt increasing installation speed. Siberian Larch is also suitable for fire retardant coatings.

Stability

The short hot summers and long cold winters of Siberia produce a high proportion of late wood which enables a smoother machined finish and enhances dimensional stability. The timber is dried to a moisture content of between 16-18%.  

That said we would advice face fixed profiles over secret fixed profiles with this species.

Workability

Siberian Larch is easy to work with both hand or machine tools. The timber glues and finishes well.

Fixings

The manner in which any timber cladding is fixed is fundamental to it’s performance in both appearance and durability. Like a lot of timbers suitable for external claddings we recommend stainless steel fixings – Face fixing screws would be our preferred option for this species.